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Massage Permitting and Inspection Program
Overview
Receiving massages is a therapeutic service that can be a great benefit to the many people that need muscle manipulation to alleviate pain or increase circulation and to those of us that just need to alleviate tension. In addition, massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, into the brain and nervous system. Performed properly, massages are safe and effective. However, if not performed properly, receiving a massage can result in injury or the transmission of infectious, contagious or communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B, scabies, or fungal infections.
The Massage Program was developed to control the transmission of diseases to persons giving and receiving massages by assuring all massage facilities are designed, operated and maintained in a clean and sanitary manner and that all massage therapists have met the training requirements to competently practice or administer massage.
The requirements for massage therapists and massage establishments are defined in County Code 8.22 and are enforced by the Health Department. These requirements apply anywhere in St. Joseph County including in any city or town.
The Health Department reviews and approves permit applications to operate massage establishments and to perform as a massage therapist. We also inspect massage establishments and therapists and respond to complaints. Please contact the Health Department to if you have a concern about an establishment or therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a massage therapist (massage technician) and what are their services?
Massage therapists are professionals who apply a variety of scientifically developed massage techniques to the soft tissue of the body to improve muscle tone and circulation. They work to enhance well-being, reduce the physical and mental effects of stress and tension, prevent disease, and restore health.
Massage therapists can specialize in over 80 different types of massage techniques and methods. These include the following, among others:
Swedish medical massage
Connective tissue massage
Reflexology
Polarity therapy
Sports massage
Shiatsu
Neuromuscular massage
Acupressure
Seated/chair massage
How does the massage therapist determine what type of massage to give?
The therapist will discuss your medical history and desired results from the massage. This gives the therapist a chance to determine what techniques could be beneficial to you or might be harmful.
Does a massage therapist use lotions or oils that may get on my clothing during the massage?
The use of lotions, creams, or oils and the clothing to be worn depends upon the method of massage. Many types of massage require clients to be covered in a blanket or sheet and the client to be undressed or wearing loose-fitting clothing. The therapist only uncovers the area of the body on which they are currently massaging. However, some massage methods are performed without lotions or oils and the client is fully clothed. If you have questions or are uncomfortable with these issues, you should discuss it with your massage therapist when you make the appointment. This will allow them to determine the massage method best suited for all of your individual needs.
What should I look for to assess the cleanliness of a massage establishment?
- Clean linens, sheets and towels with soiled items properly stored
- A place to shower with an available restroom
- No locks on doors
- Floors are debris-free and clean
Do I need a prescription to see a massage therapist?
While your physician may refer you to a massage therapist, you can seek the services of a massage therapist directly without a prescription. Massage therapists may provide services that lead to improved health and muscle function, but they do not diagnose medical diseases or disorders. They evaluate patients/clients in terms of health and disease in order to know what massage technique should be used and when to make referrals to other health care practitioners.
Where can I find a massage therapist?
You will find massage therapists in private practice, group practice, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, health spas, resorts, and in corporate offices. Check your local yellow pages under “Massage Therapists.”
How can I identify a massage therapist – is everyone who practices massage therapy called a massage therapist?
Massage therapists may identify themselves by the name of the technique, such as Shiatsu or Swedish Medical Massage, or by the establishment name. They may use general titles as well, such as massage therapy or bodywork (a term used by those who use oriental massage techniques).
Practitioners using these titles must meet the requirements of County Code 8.22, hold a Massage Technician Permit and operate in a facility with a Massage Establishment License. If you have a question about the legitimacy of a therapist or establishment, contact the Health Department at (574) 235-9721.
Links
To become a Licensed Massage Establishment or obtain a Massage Technician Permit click here.
Contact the Health Department at (574) 235-9721 for more information.
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